Assisted reproductive technology in HIV serodiscordant couples☆
Abstract
In light of new advances in antiretroviral therapy, the question of whether or not physicians have an ethical obligation to provide reproductive assistance to HIV-1 discordant couples has arisen. Reported results of world data on assisted reproductive technology (ART) in serodiscordant couples is tabulated. No cases of infection have been presented using current techniques. In the opinion of the authors, failure to provide reproductive assistance to HIV discordant couples has been a social response, not a medical one. Appropriate safe interventions are available for HIV discordant couples through IVF–intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or timed insemination. For complete references please visit: www.srmjournal.org
aDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, USA
Frances R. Batzer, M.D., Women's Institute for Fertility, Endocrinology and Menopause, 815 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107, Tel. 215-922-2206, Fax 215-922-3777
☆ About 29% of HIV-infected men and women desire children
Perinatal transmission is the most common cause of HIV infection in infants and children in the US
For HIV-positive females, preconceptual diagnosis and treatment to reduce viral loads can prevent perinatal transmission
Timed insemination, rather than unprotected intercourse, prevents male transmission
Concerns related to premature loss of a parent are relevant, although many reproductive clinics offer treatment to women with advanced medical diseases
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